Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: Before Your Child's Procedure

What is bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?

Bone marrow aspiration is a procedure that takes out a small amount of bone marrow fluid through a needle. Bone marrow biopsy uses a needle to take out a small amount of bone with the marrow inside it. These samples are then checked under a microscope. The hip bone is the most commonly used area for these procedures.

Aspiration and biopsy are often done to find a blood problem or an infection. They also may be used to find out if a cancer has spread to the bone marrow.

Your child may get medicine to help him or her relax before the procedure. The doctor will inject numbing medicine in the skin over the bone. He or she will put a needle through your child's skin and into the bone to reach the bone marrow. Your child may feel pressure or some dull pain during the procedure. After the doctor takes the sample, he or she will remove the needle. The doctor may need to take more than one sample. This can come from the same spot or from a different area on your child's body. When the procedure is done, the doctor or a nurse will put pressure on the area to stop any bleeding.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

At the hospital or doctor's office

A doctor or nurse will give your child medicine to numb the area where the needle will go. Your child may feel pain and hear a crunching sound when the needle enters the bone. This usually lasts only a few seconds. But your child may have some discomfort during the procedure.

The procedure will take about 20 to 30 minutes.

Your child will have a bandage over the area where the doctor put the needle.

Going home

You will be given more specific instructions about your child's recovery from the procedure, including activity and when your child may return to school.

Your doctor will call you with the results of your child's test.

When should you call your doctor?

You have questions or concerns.

You don't understand how to prepare your child for the procedure.

Your child becomes ill before the procedure (such as fever, flu, or a cold).

You need to reschedule or have changed your mind about your child having the procedure.

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